Antioch Travel Guide

Explore Antioch, Tennessee with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in this charming Southern town.


Introduction to Antioch

Nestled in Central Tennessee, Antioch is a charming town known for its friendly community, natural beauty, and rich history. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Antioch has something for everyone. As you explore this Southern gem, you’ll discover a town full of character and charm.

List of Places to Visit in Antioch

Antioch offers a plethora of attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Antioch:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Sam Davis Home and Plantation: A historic home that provides a glimpse into the life of a Confederate soldier during the Civil War.
  • The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: A world-renowned museum that showcases the history of country music.
  • The Johnny Cash Museum: A tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash and his impact on music history.
  • The Belle Meade Plantation: A historic landmark that tells the story of Southern plantation life.

Natural Attractions of Antioch: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Radnor Lake State Park: A serene park with stunning hiking trails, wildlife, and peaceful scenery.
  • Percy Priest Lake: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports enthusiasts.
  • The Hermitage: The historic home of President Andrew Jackson, surrounded by beautiful gardens and natural landscapes.
  • Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: A majestic estate with beautiful botanical gardens, art collections, and cultural events throughout the year.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Antioch

Antioch is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of hiking and biking options. Here are some of the best routes to consider:

  • The Antioch Greenway Trail: A beautiful trail that stretches for 9 miles along Mill Creek, offering scenic views and shady spots for picnics.
  • Radnor Lake State Park: A popular spot for hiking, with over 6 miles of trails that offer spectacular views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
  • Stones River Greenway: A paved trail that runs along the river, offering stunning views of wildlife and native plants.

Best Things to Do in Antioch: Activities and Tours

Antioch offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy, including:

  • Nashville Wine Country Tour: A guided tour of the region’s best wine and vineyards.
  • Grand Ole Opry Tour: A behind-the-scenes look at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry stage and backstage areas.
  • Belle Meade Bourbon Tour: A tour of the iconic Belle Meade mansion, followed by a whiskey-tasting experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Antioch

Day 1: Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Day 2: Explore Radnor Lake State Park. Day 3: Take a Nashville Wine Country Tour. Day 4: Visit The Hermitage or Belle Meade Plantation. Day 5: Experience the Grand Ole Opry Tour. Day 6: Take a Belle Meade Bourbon Tour. Day 7: Relax at Percy Priest Lake.

Food and Drink Scene of Antioch

Antioch has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of local specialties and international options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot chicken: A spicy Southern staple, fried chicken served with a hot sauce made with cayenne pepper.
  • Nashville-style barbecue: A unique blend of barbecue styles, typically featuring a tomato and vinegar-based sauce.
  • Meat and three: A Southern classic, featuring a meat dish and three sides such as mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet potato casserole.

Local Beverages

  • Tennessee Whiskey: A world-renowned spirit made from locally sourced corn, rye, and barley.
  • Sweet tea: A classic Southern drink, made with black tea and sweetened with sugar.
  • Craft beer: Tennessee boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.

Where to Stay in Antioch: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Antioch offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top choices:

  • Hilton Nashville Airport: A full-service hotel with modern amenities and shuttle service to the airport.
  • Antioch Quarters Inn and Suites: A budget-friendly option with free breakfast and comfortable rooms.
  • Airbnb: A popular choice for those seeking a more authentic travel experience, with many unique properties to choose from.

What to Buy in Antioch: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Antioch offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts or reminders of your trip. Here are some top options:

  • GooGoo Clusters: A Southern candy favorite made with caramel, marshmallow, peanuts, and milk chocolate.
  • Moon Pies: A beloved Southern snack, featuring marshmallow sandwiched between two graham cracker-like cookies and covered in chocolate.
  • Local crafts: Antioch is home to many talented artists and craftsmen, offering unique handmade items such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Antioch

Antioch is known for its friendly community and Southern hospitality. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of locals and embrace the town’s vibrant culture. The Southern dialect and accent may take some getting used to, but locals are always happy to help out and share their town with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Antioch

The best time to visit Antioch is from mid-March to early-June, and September to mid-November. These months offer comfortable temperatures, festivals, and events such as the Tennessee Renaissance Festival and the Franklin Main Street Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Antioch

Do:

  • Explore the town’s unique history and attractions.
  • Embrace the Southern hospitality and customs.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Be respectful of locals and their traditions.

Don’t:

  • Neglect to tip in restaurants or for other services.
  • Get involved in political discussions with locals.
  • Underestimate the heat and humidity during summer months.

Safety and Health

Safety in Antioch

Antioch is a friendly and safe town with a low rate of crime. Visitors are advised to take normal precautions such as locking doors and vehicles, and avoiding unfamiliar areas after dark.

Health in Antioch

Antioch has several clinics and hospitals that offer quality healthcare services. It is recommended that visitors invest in travel insurance prior to their trip.

Getting to Antioch: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Antioch

  • Nashville International Airport: Located just 10 miles from Antioch and served by numerous airlines.

Bus Stations Near Antioch

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located 11 miles away from Antioch in Nashville.

Other Options

  • Rental car: Antioch is easily accessible by car, with several rental car options available at the airport.
  • Taxi or rideshare: Uber and Lyft are both available in the town.

How to Get Around in Antioch

The best way to get around Antioch is by car or bike. Rental car services are available at the airport, and the Antioch Greenway Trail is an excellent option for cyclists and hikers.

Where to Go Next from Antioch: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time in the area, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Nashville: Just a short drive away, Nashville offers a wealth of attractions and activities, including live music, cultural events, and great food.
  • Great Smoky Mountains: Located about 3 hours from Antioch, the Great Smoky Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and charming mountain towns.
  • Chattanooga: About a 2-hour drive from Antioch, Chattanooga offers a range of attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Antioch is a hidden gem in Central Tennessee, offering visitors a rich cultural experience through its history, local food and drinks, and natural beauty. With so many attractions, activities, and tours to choose from, it’s no wonder Antioch is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination.